Maizena vs. Cornstarch — What's the Difference?
By Tayyaba Rehman — Updated on September 3, 2023
Maizena and cornstarch are essentially the same product—refined corn starch—but "Maizena" is a brand name more commonly used in some regions like Europe and South America. Cornstarch is the generic term mainly used in the United States.
Difference Between Maizena and Cornstarch
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Maizena and cornstarch serve the same purpose; they're both used as thickening agents in cooking. Maizena is a brand name, often found in European and South American markets. Cornstarch, however, is a generic term that is more universally recognized, particularly in the United States.
Both Maizena and cornstarch are made from corn. The kernels are processed to extract the starchy component, resulting in a white, powdery substance. While the terms are often used interchangeably, the primary difference lies in regional usage and branding.
Maizena, as a branded product, may sometimes have additional ingredients or qualities that make it unique. Cornstarch, being a generic term, can encompass a range of similar products from different manufacturers, each with potentially varying levels of quality or purity.
In recipes, Maizena and cornstarch can generally be used interchangeably. However, it’s crucial to note that because Maizena is a brand, its formulation may differ slightly, potentially impacting the texture or thickness of the dish. Cornstarch is typically standardized, but variations can still occur among different brands.
Comparison Chart
Definition
A brand name for refined corn starch
A generic term for refined corn starch
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Regional Usage
More common in Europe and South America
More common in the United States
Branding
Specific brand
Generic term
Additional Ingredients
May contain
Typically none
Price
May be higher due to branding
Generally cheaper
Compare with Definitions
Maizena
Corn starch popular in Europe and South America.
Maizena is the go-to thickening agent in this region.
Cornstarch
A generic term for a thickening agent derived from corn.
Add cornstarch to the sauce for thickness.
Maizena
A brand of corn starch.
I used Maizena to thicken the gravy.
Cornstarch
A common cooking ingredient.
Cornstarch is essential in my kitchen.
Maizena
A branded thickening agent.
Maizena makes this soup nice and creamy.
Cornstarch
A refined corn product.
This cornstarch is 100% pure.
Maizena
A brand that specializes in corn-based thickening agents.
I grew up using Maizena for all my thickening needs.
Cornstarch
A non-branded thickening agent.
I bought generic cornstarch from the store.
Maizena
A commercial corn starch product.
The recipe calls for Maizena, but I only have generic cornstarch.
Cornstarch
Powdered corn used to change the texture of food.
Cornstarch made the soup smoother.
Maizena
A trademark for: maize flour as used in cooking; any similar flour used as a thickening agent.
Cornstarch
Finely ground maize flour, used as a thickener in cooking; cornflour.
Maizena
(dated) Cornflour, cornstarch.
Cornstarch
Starch prepared from corn grains, used industrially and as a thickener in cooking.
Cornstarch
A very fine starch powder derived from corn (maize) used in cooking as a thickener, to keep things from sticking, or as an anti-caking agent.
Cornstarch
Starch made from Indian corn, esp. a fine white flour used for puddings, etc.
Cornstarch
Starch prepared from the grains of corn; used in cooking as a thickener
Common Curiosities
Is Maizena a global brand?
Maizena is more commonly used in Europe and South America.
What is Maizena?
Maizena is a brand name for a type of refined corn starch.
Where is cornstarch commonly used?
Cornstarch is widely used in the United States.
What is cornstarch?
Cornstarch is a generic term for a refined corn product used as a thickening agent.
Is cornstarch always pure?
Typically, but it can vary by brand.
How is Maizena made?
Like cornstarch, Maizena is made from processed corn kernels.
Are Maizena and cornstarch the same?
Essentially, yes, although Maizena is a specific brand and may have some unique characteristics.
Does Maizena contain additional ingredients?
It may, depending on the specific product.
Can I use cornstarch instead of Maizena in a recipe?
Yes, but note that the texture may vary slightly.
Can Maizena and cornstarch be used interchangeably?
Generally, yes, but the results may vary slightly.
Do they serve the same purpose in cooking?
Yes, both are used as thickening agents.
Is cornstarch gluten-free?
Yes, cornstarch is typically gluten-free.
Is Maizena gluten-free?
Generally, yes, as it is a corn-based product.
Is Maizena more expensive than generic cornstarch?
Generally, brand-name products like Maizena may be more expensive.
How is cornstarch made?
Cornstarch is made by processing corn kernels to extract the starchy component.
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Written by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
